Queenie + HyunJun - Airlie Center wedding, Warrenton, Virginia

I do love an Airlie wedding. Queenie + HyunJun had two ceremonies on their wedding day. A Chinese wedding tea ceremony in traditional clothing started off the emotional day. The bride and groom kneal and present tea to their closest relatives while surrounded by their extended family. It was such a lovely way to honor and respect their family and at one point almost everyone was crying! After a change of clothes, a first look and some portraits, Queenie + HyunJun proceeded to a traditional ceremony in the lower garden at Airlie. Yes, it was a little hot but I loved the adorable fans/programs that Queenie created for the day. And it’s hard to beat a ring bearer wearing a fedora. After the ceremony I took what ended up being one of my absolute favorite photos of the day. Often I do most of the bride and groom portraits before the ceremony. But I like to have a few minutes afterwards, when possible, to do just a couple more. Something changes once the vows have been said. Maybe it’s relief or maybe it’s that magic that happens when it’s official. Throw in a simple background of green foliage and fabulous early evening light and a little moment of joy. Pure love.